Bed bugs are becoming an increasing problem in rentals? Under Washington state law landlords are obligated to manage infestations in rental units, except in single family residences or when the infestation is caused by the tenant. In order to hold the tenants responsible the owner would have to be able to demonstrate that the infestation was caused by the tenant, which can be difficult to do. Also, it may not be in the owner’s best interests to have the tenants attempt to exterminate pests that can do property damage themselves.

Critical maintenance issues have to be addressed even if a tenant is behind in rent? For example, a tenant who is being evicted for non-payment of rent still has the right to a working heating system. Furthermore, while the Washington State Landlord/Tenant Act restricts the actions a tenant can take to force a landlord to make general repairs if the rent is not current, the tenant may claim that the rent hasn’t been paid because the work wasn’t done.

The city of Seattle has passed an ordinance requiring registration and inspection of all rental properties beginning in 2014?

Under the legislation all properties with 10 or more rental units will have to register with the city by July 1, 2014; from five to nine units by December 31, 2014, and from one to four units by December 31, 2016. Property owners initially will complete a checklist certifying that the housing meets city health and safety codes. The plan is for all rental units to be inspected within 10 years and, once inspected, to be on a five-year cycle for re-inspection.

Seattle is the fourth city in the state to create such a requirement for registration and inspections. Des Moines’ and Burien’s were largely overturned by the courts but Pasco’s was upheld, which prompted Seattle City Council’s directive.

That if a written accounting of the tenant’s deposit is not mailed within fourteen days of vacating the premises, that nothing can be taken out of the deposit? In fact, a judge can require a landlord to pay the tenant twice the amount of the deposit if a landlord does not comply with this requirement.

We are here to help you and your clients with all aspects of the rental market. Please contact us for further assistance!

www.cbbainrentals.com

That a tenant has basic rights in Washington, including the right to a clean and sanitary home, some form of heat and electricity, the right to hold the landlord liable for any damage caused by the landlord’s negligence, and the right to not be discriminated against by a landlord? In addition, tenants are protected from being locked out of their apartment or having their property seized by their landlord. Tenants also have the right to not have their utilities cut off if they can’t pay their rent, and to not be retaliated against by their landlord if they complain to governmental authorities about the rental’s condition or the landlord.

That there is no three day (or other time frame) right of rescission on a lease? There’s also no provision for a neighborhood review and no Form 17. Due diligence must be done before the lease is signed. Once the lease is signed it’s a “done deal.”